SEATTLE, Wash. – Hospitals in Washington are not only stressed by the surge caused by omicron.
Dr. John Hess of Harborview Medical Center’s blood transfusion service says they’re also experiencing an unprecedented blood shortage.
“We have moved to crisis standards,” said Hess. “There are places, as I say, that cannot meet their normal requirements.”
PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center is not reporting shortages at this time, but local blood supplier Bloodworks Northwest says the system is strained.
Spokesman John Yeager says personnel shortages and safety measures they’re taking during the pandemic have restricted the number of donations they can take in a day.
Appointments are weeks away on their website but he says a receptionist at their 800 number can often get donors in sooner.
Call 800-398-7888 to make a blood donation appointment.